In March last year, we shared news of the Dartington Hall Trust’s intention to end the lease of The Agroforestry Research Trust’s groundbreaking 2 acre food forest project — housed on the Dartington Estate for the last 31 years. The garden has brought over 50,000 visitors to the estate, hosted important scientific research on carbon storage, and become what is often described as the best example of a food forest (or forest garden) in the temperate world.

Excitingly, ART now has the opportunity to purchase the forest garden, which will safeguard it in perpetuity!

ART has already raised some of the funds, but are looking to raise £100,000 towards the total needed to cover the sale price and legal fees. Whatever you can afford, it will all help and you will know that you have contributed to securing the forest garden for future generations. If you are a UK taxpayer then ART can also claim Gift Aid on your donation.

Forest gardens (also known as food forests) are long term sustainable integrated growing systems including trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and fungi. They produce food or other crops while being highly resilient to pests, diseases and weather extremes; and at the same time storing a large amount of carbon. In the light of the climate crisis leading to a rapid increase in extreme weather events, the need for forest gardens has never been greater.

Almost half the money has currently been raised, with donations closing at the end of the month.

You can find out more about the project and donate here.